20 Fast Beauty Tips

Beauty fades, but only when you let it
By Brook Phelps

eDiets Contributor

Keeping a fresh, polished look may require some upkeep. However, with minimal effort you can improve yourself from head to toe -- and every little bit counts. After all, the sum is the whole of its parts.

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Even when time isn't on your side, there are simple ways to optimize your appearance without spending a fortune on costly cosmetics and beauty products. Better nails, healthy hair, smoother skin and a flawless face can be yours with the help of these 20 quick beauty fixes.

1. If you're in a hurry, a little concealer is all you really need to look rejuvenated and awake. Just dab a little under the eyes and on any blemishes, and you're good to go.

2. Pedicures and manicures always look fresher and last longer if you choose a nail polish color in a neutral color, like light pink, nude or beige. If the polish chips, the result is less noticeable than if you were wearing a bright hue, like red.

3. To get rid of dry, flaky lips, gently scrub them with a soft, wet toothbrush (preferably one you don't use to brush your teeth). Dab a little Vaseline or your favorite lip balm onto the toothbrush to give your lips a mini-exfoliation.

4. Cucumbers aren't just great in salads. Put thinly sliced cucumbers put over the eyes to reduce puffiness. Just make sure to refrigerate the slices for 15 minutes before applying. If you don't have cucumbers, moistened, refrigerated tea bags also work well.

5. Got a case of the oilies but don't have time to wash your hair? Sprinkle a little baby powder onto your hairbrush or directly on your hair. The powder will help to absorb excess oil. Be careful not to overdo it, or you'll make your hair appear gray.

6. Drier lipsticks last longer than those that contain more emollients or oil. As a general rule, matte finishes will have more staying power. If you don't like retouching your lipstick frequently throughout the day, skip the gloss.

7. For super-smooth legs, wait to shave until the end of your shower. The hot water will help to soften the hairs, making them easier to remove.

8. If mascara frequently clumps and globs on your lashes, try wiping your mascara wand off with a tissue to remove excess product. What is left on the wand is enough to coat your lashes without the mess.

9. If you are prone to "poofy" hair, try rinsing your hair with cool or cold water next time you shampoo. This helps the cuticle to lie flat, making the hair appear smoother.

10. If you don't have room in your purse to carry a makeup bag, you can get away with one lipstick for your whole face. Pick a neutral color that can do double duty as a lip and cheek color. Dab a few dots on the cheeks and blend with your fingers for instant color.

11. Powder bronzer is also a great multipurpose product that doesn't take up too much space. Carry a small blush brush to add color to the cheeks and eyes. Also, try patting a little bit on top of clear lip gloss or lip balm for a different lip color.

12. Get unruly brows into shape using a little hair gel. Groomed brows instantly open and frame the eye and makes eye makeup look a lot more polished.

13. If you don't have time to mess around with multiple eye shadow colors, a single, neutral shade works wonders. Pick one that has a slight sheen (not glittery) in the bone or beige color family and apply the color to the entire lid. A matte, textured eye shadow can look too chalky.

14. Next time you're making a purchase at the beauty counter, ask for samples or trial sizes. It a great way to try out something new, and they are handy for traveling.

15. Instead of carrying a purse-sized spray of your favorite perfume, try layering products, like body wash, powder and lotion (all of the same fragrance, of course) to make your fragrance last through the evening.

16. Banish a bad hair day by creating a side part and combing hair into a smooth, low ponytail. Secure with a hair band the same color as your hair and spray with a light hold hairspray. Remember, there's nothing more chic than simple and classic.

17. Make your teeth look whiter without a trip to the dentist by choosing a lip color with a blue undertone. Cool reds, berries, burgundies and wines will help make your smile look brighter.

18. If you're long overdue for a haircut but don't have time to visit your stylist, try an at-home deep conditioning treatment to add moisture and shine. Use it once or twice a week to keep your hair protected until you can get your ends trimmed.

19. Try wearing white or a light-colored eyeliner on the bottom inner rim of your eyes, paired with a navy or very dark blue liner on the lash line. The contrast of the colors will make eyes appear bigger and brighter.

20. To smooth and soften rough elbows and knees, use a gentle body scrub in the shower and follow up with a rich moisturizer containing alpha hydroxy acid. You can also do the same for your feet and give yourself a mini foot treatment.

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